Steve Hubbard
Military Man to Business Man
Steve served seventeen years in the Airforce as an Aircraft Electrical Technician working on a selection of fast jets and helicopters, in both active squadrons and maintenance bays up and down the country.
“I dodged rockets in Iraq, sipped cocktails in Cyprus and endured cold winters guarding the gates in Scotland.”
Steve’s military career was flying high when sadly an accident forced him to make a career change.
“My career was ended by a skiing accident during winter training that injured my spine and left me with neurological issues. Finding work as a civilian was hard, new industries all wanted experience and I was too old to be an apprentice.”
“I was offered some very nice opportunities offshore and several good placements away from home. But my heart was set on going back to Norfolk with my family and my injuries would never allow me to take on a physically demanding role.”
After taking the step to buy a franchise, Steve can finally prioritise his family, while working for himself. “We have now had the Norwich franchise for two years. We have nearly paid off that loan and have been living comfortably.
More importantly, we have been building up a great reputation in the area and our lives are our own. I work from home and get to be part of my family every day. If my health is suffering I have no one to answer to.”
“We already had the experience, and we are very proactive, but for those who need more guidance, the Shuttercraft franchise team is there for you. I would definitely recommend a Shuttercraft franchise to veterans looking to get a foot hold in civilian live and start a family business.”
Nigel Phillips-Luke
From Royal Navy Diver to Business Owner
Nigel spent eleven years in the Royal Navy working within Warfare Operations, and then as a diver. He then spent around 3 years working within IT recruitment, which lead him into the Project Management environment, where he spent the last 12 years working as a project manager for several organisations.
When he decided that he wanted to step away from his employed position and own something for himself, he wanted to maximise his own potential and enjoy being his own boss around his young family.
Franchising seemed like the best option, as it minimises some of the risk element of starting out on your own as you become part of an established organisation and brand with proven processes and procedures.
“I embarked on my search and researched the area thoroughly. I registered with multiple organisations out there which are associated to the BFA. I talked with a variety of franchisors until I was comfortable enough to take the next step.”
That next step was Shuttercraft UK, based at Micheldever. Since Shuttercraft is just down the road, this allowed Nigel to easily meet up with the senior management, find out how the teams work and fully understand the franchise operation.
“The company also manufactures shutters under the S:CRAFT brand and utilises their extensive market knowledge so that franchisees are provided with the highest levels of support, including an on-going marketing programme.”
